Heavy rain and thunderstorms in western Colorado prompted closures in both directions on Interstate 70 between Dotsero and Glenwood Springs for more than four hours on Wednesday, according to the Colorado Department of Transportation.

I-70 through Glenwood Canyon reopens after multiple mudslides

Additionally, eastbound I-70 was closed between Rifle and Canyon Creek and went into effect just before 4 p.m. 

The interstate reopened about 8:20 p.m.

The closures were because of potential flash flooding from the Grizzle Creek burn scar area. A flash flood warning was in effect for the area but has since been lifted.

There were two shallow mudslides on the interstate at mile marker 128 that crews cleaned up.

⚠️UPDATE: As SAFETY CLOSURE continues due to weather, crews are cleaning two shallow mudslides at Mile Point 128 due to rain on the Grizzly Creek burn scar. The slides were 1-3 inches of very slick mud. See https://t.co/uOU0HHbUQ6 for road closure status. pic.twitter.com/yXlE2DsH8R

— Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) (@ColoradoDOT) July 15, 2021

The interstate is shut down when there is a flash flood warning in the area. Drivers are are encouraged to use a northern route along U.S. 40 to avoid the closure.

I-70 was closed on Tuesday because of a flash flood warning but reopened several hours later.

CDOT is asking drivers to check COTrip.org before hitting the roadways to ensure your route will be hassle free.